Council Supports Summer of Fleadhs Across Newry, Mourne and Down

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is encouraging residents and visitors to experience a vibrant summer of traditional Irish music, culture and community spirit as three major Fleadhs take place across the district in the coming months. 
 
The Council has provided funding support towards the events as part of its ongoing commitment to cultural development, tourism growth and supporting local communities. 
 
The summer programme begins with the Armagh County Fleadh in Crossmaglen from 25–31 May, marking a particularly significant occasion as the Fleadh returns to the town for the first time in more than 50 years.  
 
The event is expected to bring a major celebration of music, dancing, singing and Irish culture to the heart of South Armagh, with a packed programme of competitions, sessions, concerts and community events planned throughout the week. 
 
The celebrations continue with the Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin (Down Fleadh) in Downpatrick from 15–21 June, offering another opportunity to showcase the district’s rich musical traditions in the historic home of St Patrick. Musicians, performers and visitors from across the island are expected to gather in the town for a week-long programme celebrating traditional Irish arts and culture. 
 
The Ulster Fleadh takes place in Warrenpoint from 19–26 July, bringing one of the province’s largest traditional music festivals to the scenic coastal town. Last year’s event attracted around 30,000 visitors, with organisers hoping to grow this year’s visitor numbers to 40,000. 
 
With its vibrant hospitality sector, waterfront setting and strong musical tradition, Warrenpoint is expected to provide a fitting backdrop for what promises to be a major regional cultural celebration. 
 
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “The Council is delighted to support this exciting programme of Fleadhs taking place across the district throughout the summer months, celebrating the enduring strength of traditional Irish music, song, dance and culture within our communities. 
 
“These events are an important opportunity not only to showcase our rich cultural heritage, but also to bring people together through music, community participation and shared experiences. Fleadhs continue to play a vital role in encouraging young musicians and performers, supporting local cultural organisations and ensuring these traditions are preserved and celebrated for future generations.” 
 
The Council Chairperson said the programme of summer events will create a vibrant atmosphere across towns and villages throughout the district, attracting competitors, performers and visitors from across Ireland and beyond, with the increased footfall
providing a significant boost for local businesses, hospitality providers and the wider tourism sector, while also highlighting Newry, Mourne and Down as a welcoming and culturally vibrant destination.

Cllr Campbell added: “With the All-Ireland Fleadh taking place in Belfast this year, there is also a fantastic opportunity for visitors to explore the wider region and experience everything our district has to offer — from our coastline and mountains to our unique heritage, hospitality and busy calendar of festivals and events throughout the summer season.” 
 
This summer’s programme also comes as excitement continues to build ahead of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast, one of the largest celebrations of Irish music and culture in the world. 

Hosting of the All-Ireland Fleadh on the island’s eastern corridor presents a major opportunity for Newry, Mourne and Down to welcome domestic and international visitors exploring the wider region during their stay. 
 
Ideally located between Belfast and Dublin, the district offers excellent accessibility through direct rail services on the Belfast–Dublin line, extensive bus connections and strong road links, making it an attractive base for visitors attending Fleadh events across the region. 
 
Visitors staying in Newry, Mourne and Down can enjoy a wide range of accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, self-catering properties and coastal retreats, experiencing the renowned Mourne Gullion Strangford offering outdoor adventures, food experiences and a packed calendar of festivals and events throughout the summer season. 

For further information visit https://www.visitmournegullionstrangford.com/whats-on/summer-trad-and-fleadh-in-mourne-gullion-strangford